Resuming our long-lapsed Boxing Day theatre tradition, Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre proved the perfect return. From the ensemble warming up the audience with ballet moves pre-show, to a thoughtful, playful retelling of Noel Streatfeild’s story, this production balances warmth, invention and heart. Standout dancing, smart adaptations, and a finale that lands squarely in Croydon make this generous family theatre at its best. ★★★★★

There are a dozen ways to stage A Christmas Carol in December — lavish ensembles, swirling snow, celebrity Scrooges. One Christmas Carol goes the opposite way, and in the intimate upstairs room of the Bread & Roses Theatre, that choice feels like a declaration. Dickens is stripped back to story, language, and performance, with Gwithian Evans conjuring an entire Victorian world solo through voice, precision, and extraordinary control. It’s the one.

A cheeky, body-positive cabaret at Golden Goose Theatre, Boys in the Buff is all about confidence, humour, and audience fun. Expect dazzling songs, playful interaction, and even clothing-optional nights for a liberating twist. Running until 10 January 2026—book now for a night that’s bold, inclusive, and unforgettable

From the moment the glittering curtain rises, Hackney Empire’s Cinderella casts its spell. Clive Rowe’s all-singing, all-dancing panto boasts a huge, high-energy cast, joyous live band and show-stopping magic, from Jade Johnson’s Fairy Godmother to a gasp-inducing flying horse and carriage. With riotous Ugly Sisters, a winning Buttons and a warm-hearted Cinderella, it’s polished, funny and full of festive heart.

Beauty and the Beast: A Horny Love Story at Charing Cross Theatre is a gloriously queer panto packed with bawdy laughs, dazzling tartan-punk costumes, and THAT yellow kilt moment. Matt Kennedy charms as Bertie, Keanu Adolphus Johnson transforms as the Beast, and Matthew Baldwin’s Dame steals the show in jaw-dropping couture. Naughty but just avoiding crude—book now at charingcrosstheatre.co.uk!

A riotous queer comedy packed with innuendo and musical mischief! Two young lovers escape wartime London to a boarding house for “bad butch boys,” launching a campy, filthy twist on Narnia. Expect Mr Topless, Arselan the lion, and a Beaver with an appetite—plus reimagined show tunes like “Accepting My Depravity.” High-energy performances, clever jokes, and a sweet love story make this two-hour romp unmissable.

Sparkling, silly and stuffed with festive mischief, Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall is back! Dan Clarkson returns with cheeky charm, joined by Gary Trainor for a fresh twist on classic pantos. Expect topical jokes, slapstick chaos, and even an AI 3D scene. A five-star treat for families—best for kids who know their Cinderellas from their Aladdins. Pure Christmas joy in London’s most magical venue!

Wicked Witches – A Popular Panto for Adults! at The Pleasance Theatre is a riotous, gender-bending twist on Oz, packed with laughs, audience participation, and a heartwarming message of inclusivity. Naughty, clever, and wildly entertaining, it’s easily the most fun I’ve had at the theatre all year. 5/5 stars.

A jolly festive cracker where you are the star. This fast-paced, tech-filled Christmas caper mixes party tricks, games, musical mayhem and audience antics to keep Krampus at bay. Tom Clarkson and Own Visser dazzle with Vic-and-Bob-meets-tech energy, delivering nonstop gags, clever twists and riotous surprises. A joyful, inventive festive treat.

Step into Victorian London at The Lost Estate’s Great Christmas Feast, an atmospheric blend of dining, live music and a one-man A Christmas Carol. David Alwyn gives an energetic, engaging performance, though the show could benefit from a second actor to deepen the emotion. Beautifully staged with a hearty Victorian-inspired menu, it’s a charming, festive experience that delivers plenty of seasonal magic.

A sparkling Christmas treat, The Mill at Sonning’s My Fair Lady is beautifully sung, lovingly staged and full of charm. Simbi Akande and Nadim Naaman shine, and Mark Moraghan’s irresistible Alfred Doolittle steals every scene. Gorgeous costumes, superb values, and the signature meal-and-show experience make this a perfect festive night out.

Brick Lane Music Hall’s The Magic of Christmas is a joyful, glitter-dusted celebration of music hall tradition, complete with sparkling design, endless costume changes, warm community spirit and standout turns from Vincent Hayes and violinist Victoria Yellop. A festive feast of song, humour and nostalgia in one of London’s most unique venues.

he Grim at Southwark Playhouse mixes sharp comedy with uneven horror. The dynamic between Shaun and Robert brings plenty of laughs, while Harry Carter’s explosive arrival as Jackie Gallagher steals the show. The 1960s setting feels unnecessary, and the supernatural elements don’t fully land, but there’s real potential for this to grow into something special.

Fantasia Orchestra opened their Smith Square Hall residency with a birdsong-inspired programme that proved both cohesive and emotionally rich. Elizabeth Watts stepped in with just 24 hours’ notice, delivering a remarkable performance that anchored an evening spanning Vivaldi to Messiaen, all unified by themes of nature, flight and voice.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you love riddles, cryptic crosswords or the kind of magic that makes your brain do a little double-take, then The Enigmatist  at Wilton’s Music Hall is an absolute must-see — five stars without a moment’s hesitation. This isn’t just a magic show; it’s a cleverly engineered puzzle adventure, and David Kwong has such a deft hand at blending wordplay with wizardry that the whole evening feels like a gentle (and yet very enjoyable) workout for the mind. Wilton’s itself

Christmas cheer meets Celtic sparkle in A Fairytale for Christmas, now delighting audiences on tour. With Riverdance-inspired choreography, moving moments like O Holy Night and Danny Boy, and rousing singalongs, the show radiates festive warmth. The talented cast feel like old friends sharing a joyful, feel-good Christmas celebration for all ages.

Luxmuralis’ Time transforms the Old Royal Naval College into a glowing canvas of light, sound, and history. From the Painted Hall to the Chapel, projections and music create an immersive journey through centuries, echoing Greenwich’s role as the home of time. It’s a breath-taking blend of art and architecture that makes this iconic landmark feel truly alive.

Olly Hawes’s Old Fat F**k Up is a raw, darkly funny dive into masculinity, fatherhood, and failure. Blending confession, theatre, and stand-up, Hawes strips life bare on a stark stage, shifting from humor to heartbreak with ease. At its best, it’s unflinching and deeply human—an honest portrait of middle-aged vulnerability that lingers long after the lights fade.

dward J Moore’s The Seahorse remains strikingly relevant, exploring a tempestuous relationship in a claustrophobic seafront bar. Seaman Harry Bales seeks permanence with Gertrude Blum, a guarded bar owner, igniting a tense battle of control. Through raw dialogue and physical intensity, the play reveals vulnerability amid passion and conflict, leaving audiences captivated by its emotional currents. On at the Golden Gosse Theatre noe.

Our round up of all the nice and naughty shows for Christmas, some old favourites, some pantos - traditional and adult, and other fun experiences. Do come and join us and get into the festive spirit.